Cleaning up from Hurricane Irma in Jacksonville and Ponte Vedra is overwhelming. With power-outages, fallen trees, flooded homes, and the complete upheaval of everyday life, we know what you’re going through. Our hearts go out to you and your families as we face this trying time together.

As we clean up and rebuild our community, we feel a responsibility to warn you about the impending arrival of an epic amount of mosquitoes. While flood waters begin to recede, small puddles and debris hold that water for even longer, creating a perfect situation for mosquito multiplicity.

Why Do Mosquitoes Get Bad After Hurricanes?

Do you remember our mosquito math? One female mosquito with a blood meal lays up to 300 eggs at once. Needing standing water to develop into adults, the perfect hot and wet conditions mean these mosquito eggs will become adults in about a week or less. By week four, in the right conditions, that single mosquito can become over a billion mosquitoes. Florida’s September summer heat creates those perfect conditions.

Eliminate Standing Water, Quickly.

The best way you can protect your family and community is to get rid of all of the standing water you can, as fast as you can. In normal conditions, we offer the Ts of mosquito control to help you find hidden sources of standing water around your yard. In flood conditions, you can only do so much. That is where the additional post-hurricane mosquito threat lies. If you have water in your yard that you cannot eliminate, mosquito treatment is your best protection.

West Nile Virus in Jacksonville

We’ve talked about how mosquitoes are the most deadly animal on Earth. That threat is here now. Two weeks before Irma hit, the first human case of West Nile Virus of the year was reported in Duval County. West Nile Virus is transmitted to humans and other animals by the bite of an infected mosquito. While 70-80% of people who get West Nile Virus never experience a symptom, about 20% will get the flu-like febrile illness, and less than 1% will have a neurological illness which can include encephalitis or meningitis. About 10% of patients with neurological disease from West Nile Virus will die.

Mosquito Squad of Greater Jacksonville and Ponte Vedra is here to help you. Our trucks are up and running and treating properties all around town. Call today for our mosquito treatment. It can eliminate 85-90% of mosquitoes on your property. The sooner you act, the better, each adult female we eliminate prevents millions of more mosquitoes in the next several weeks. Call today: 904-559-3414

There was a point last summer where the media may have had you afraid to go outside due to all the talk of the Zika virus and the dangerous outbreaks occurring. With the talk of people traveling to the Olympics and coming back with it and the effect it could have on newborn babies, how could we not be a little frightened? Oh, and one more thing… it was new. New is always scary. And now suddenly it seems like it’s practically gone. Out of the news entirely. Well, there’s a good reason for that.

Drastic Drop in Florida Zika Cases

In 2016, Florida Health officials reported 1,500 cases of Zika virus in Florida. So far in 2017, the count is up to a mere 140. It appears that this is due to something called “herd immunity”. Dr. Henry Walke, an incident manager for Zika response with the CDC, states that once people have been infected, they will not be infected again. He also says the decline in Zika is true for Puerto Rico, South America, and the Caribbean. Dr. Uriel Kitron, chair of the department of environmental health sciences at Emory University explains herd immunity like this, “If a large enough proportion of the herd – be it cows, mice, or people – are resistant to a disease, it’s very difficult for the disease to spread.” He says that Zika infections are extremely low in Brazil as well. Keep in mind that while Zika can have devastating effects, they have mostly been to babies of mothers who became sick while pregnant. The average human being who contracted Zika, most likely had symptoms similar to a cold if they had any at all. There is likely a large number of people that caught the illness and are now immune with no knowledge of it at all.

Does This Mean the Zika Virus Is Gone?

Matthew Aliota, from the University of Wisconsin’s School of Medicine, says no. He does believe that future outbreaks will be smaller, but he says that is hard to be sure of. There are many factors that contribute to what is ahead for the Zika virus. Aliota also believes that there will be a vaccine for Zika eventually.

This is certainly promising news, however, Aliota says that he believes if there is a local outbreak of Zika in the US, he expects it to be in Florida and other Gulf regions. So, Zika virus in Jacksonville and Ponte Vedra cannot be entirely forgotten. We must continue our due diligence in protecting ourselves from mosquitoes and mosquito bites.

Continue to follow the Ts of mosquito control and add Mosquito Squad of Greater Jacksonville and Ponte Vedra to your multifaceted mosquito control measures. Our barrier treatment eliminates up to 90% of all mosquitoes on contact and continues to work for up to three weeks. Call us today and let’s get started on making your backyard a safe and fun place for your family and not for mosquitoes. 904-559-3414

Eastern Equine Encephalitis – EEE – is a viral disease that most often infects horses and is very dangerous. Mosquitoes contract the disease from birds that live in freshwater swamps and then pass it on to unvaccinated horses. While it is rare, EEE can infect humans as well. Most cases of EEE occur from May to August, but here in Florida, it can be seen year round. According to the Florida Department of Public Health we usually see 1 or 2 human cases and upwards of 60 equine cases of Triple E each year, however when conditions are favorable the equine cases can be more than 200.

EEE In Horses

More than 80% of horses that contract EEE will die. It spreads quickly through their bodies and infects the nervous system. Symptoms include fever, depression, lack of appetite, circling, head pressing, blindness, stiffness and paralysis, seizures, and eventually death. All horses are at risk if not vaccinated, but young adults seem to be more vulnerable. The University of Florida’s College of Veterinary Medicine suggest vaccinating twice a year as the most important step in protecting your horses but also suggests the following: remove standing water in pastures and near stables, apply fly masks and sheets when horses are at pasture, spray horses with repellent, do not pasture during the hours of dawn and dusk when mosquitoes are most active, and keep fans on in your barns and stables.

EEE In Humans

While it is very rare for humans to contract EEE, the death rate for those that do is more than 30%. That makes it one of the most serious mosquito-borne illnesses in the United States. Symptoms including fever, muscle pain, and headache will likely develop within 3-10 days. If encephalitis becomes present the symptoms will probably include seizures and vomiting and can lead to coma. While some humans may never show signs at all, it can be very dangerous and often those that survive the encephalitis suffer life-long effects. There is no vaccine for humans and no treatment, only treatment of symptoms in efforts to prevent the most serious afflictions. The best thing a human can do is avoid being bitten by a mosquito.

Barrier Sprays and Automatic Misting Systems

At Mosquito Squad of Greater Jacksonville and Ponte Vedra, we urge you to follow the Ts of mosquito proofing your yard. And when you get the final T “Treat,” let us help you. Our barrier treatment will eliminate 85-90% of mosquitoes in your yard on contact and continue to work for up to 3 weeks. Have barns and stables that need some extra attention? Our automatic misting systems releases a 30-second spray several times daily for added mosquito control. Call us today and let’s begin the process of keeping you and your animals protected from the unwanted illnesses that mosquitoes can bring. 904-559-3414

Did you know that the mosquito season in the Greater Jacksonville and Ponte Vedra area is on average 239 days a year? With constant mosquitoes, it only makes good sense to deploy continuous mosquito control for more active outdoor enjoyment. While we don’t recommend automatic mosquito misting systems for everyone, here is a glimpse at the top four properties that can benefit.

Horse Stables

Insects are naturally attracted to animals. Most are less able than humans to defend themselves, making a blood meal easier to obtain for the mosquito. Did you know that mosquitoes transmit the deadly Eastern Equine Encephalitis to horses? With a mosquito misting system you’ll lower your horses’ risks and keep them more comfortable. You’ll also make life more comfortable for anyone who is caring for or riding the horses.

Mosquitoes Love Marshy Wet Areas

If your property is marshy or adjacent to wetlands, an automatic mosquito misting system has your name written all over it. While local municipalities treat public wetlands with larvicide, they are not full-proof. We were recently reminded that some salt-marsh loving mosquitoes, like the Golden Salt Marsh Mosquito, will fly up to 25 miles to get a blood meal, meaning even if you are in proximity to the marshes, these mosquitoes can fly into your yard to seek a bite. With an automatic mosquito misting system, you’ll get mosquito barrier treatment protection several times a day to combat these invaders.

Heavily Wooded Properties

Are you near the woods? Does your property feature a large number of trees creating a shady retreat from the hot Florida sun? If so, an automatic mosquito misting system might be perfect. With afternoon downpours, it can be difficult for your property to dry out completely, making it an excellent source of standing water for mosquitoes to multiply and grow. An automatic misting system will keep those mosquitoes in check, daily.

Mosquito Control for Recreational Facilities

If you manage or own an outdoor recreational or event facility, you know that your clients need to be able to enjoy the activity without the annoyance and danger of biting mosquitoes. Whether you host summer camps, athletic events, concerts, or weddings, if the mosquitoes swarm, word-of-mouth will spread, and you will soon be losing revenue. Our mosquito misting system is a lovely solution for keeping mosquito populations low with a spray schedule to fit your needs. Best of all, the system can be manually triggered at any time for added protection immediately before an event.

At Mosquito Squad of Greater Jacksonville and Ponte Vedra, we offer the best mosquito control solutions to meet our clients’ needs. Your automatic mosquito misting system will be designed to fit your unique property for the best mosquito control results. The automatic controller allows for a custom spray schedule to fit around your schedule as well as a manual control for immediate needs. Call us today for more information about the best mosquito control method for your property. 904-559-3414

We have previously discussed the two most notorious types of mosquitoes in the Jacksonville and Ponte Vedra area, but did you know there is a total of 47 different types of mosquitoes that make the Jacksonville area their home? Not all mosquitoes carry disease, and not all mosquitoes cause a problem for humans and our pets, but the following list of fourteen mosquitoes covers the most common mosquitoes you may come across while enjoying the outdoors locally.

Aedes Aegypti is also known as the Yellow Fever Mosquito. A small black mosquito with silvery markings on its back, it is active during the day and breeds in containers with standing water that can include buckets, tires, children’s toys, even your Bromeliad plants. It can transmit Yellow fever, Zika Virus, Dengue fever, and Chikungunya. This mosquito was responsible for the Jacksonville Yellow fever quarantine of 1888.

Aedes albopictus is also known as the Asian Tiger Mosquito. It is also a small black mosquito but with a distinctive white line on its head and feeds during the daytime. It is a container breeder often found in urban areas. Aedes Albopictus can transmit Chikungunya, Dengue fever, Zika virus, and Dirofilariasis.

Aedes infirmatus and Aedes tormentor are commonly known as the Woodland Mosquito. Medium dark brown mosquitoes, they breed in wooded areas and open fields where rain pools temporarily form. Treating water sources is the best method of containing them. These mosquitoes can carry West Nile Virus but are not a known transmitter of disease to humans or animals.

Aedes solicitans is commonly called the Golden Salt Marsh Mosquito. Medium to large, these brown mosquitoes have yellow accents on their legs, thorax, and abdomen. More active at dusk and dawn, these mosquitoes can be found in the Jacksonville salt marshes and are known to fly up to 25 miles from the breeding source for a blood meal. Luckily this mosquito is not known to transmit disease.

Aedes taeniorhynchus is likely known to you as the Black Salt Marsh Mosquito. A small to medium dark brown to black mosquito with stripes on its legs and abdomen. More active at dusk and dawn, this mosquito can transmit heartworms to dogs and carry West Nile Virus, but it is not known if it can transmit West Nile Virus to humans.

Anopheles crucians complex includes a group of three mosquitoes that look very similar. Medium sized with dark colors, and a spotted wing pattern, these mosquitoes have long legs. They like ponds, swamps and some even like brackish water. These mosquitoes feed at night and can carry malaria but are not known to commonly transmit malaria.

Anopheles quadrimaculatus is known as the Malaria Mosquito because it is the primary mosquito for transmitting Malaria in Eastern North America. A medium dark brown mosquito, it has four spots on the wings. They prefer ponds and swamps and feed after dark, preferring large mammals and humans.

Culiseta melanura is a mosquito mostly known for the disease it commonly transmits, Eastern Equine Encephalitis virus. Triple E is a virus that can be deadly to humans but commonly affects horses and some bird species. It is a medium sized, medium brown, non-distinct mosquito that breeds in ground pools in wooded areas. It can overwinter as an adult and is often the first mosquito flying in the spring.

Culex nigripalpus is common throughout Florida; they carry many diseases including West Nile virus, Japanese encephalitis, St. Louis encephalitis, and Eastern Equine encephalitis. Commonly found in ditches, these mosquitoes are dark brown to bronze and small with no distinct features. They prefer birds but will bite mammals.

Culex pipiens quinqefasciatus is the Southern House Mosquito. This mosquito is commonly found in septic or dirty water like ditches and catch basins. It is the primary vector of St. Louis encephalitis and also transmits West Nile virus. This mosquito is very common but is a non-distinct, medium-sized mosquito with dark brown to bronze coloring and pale bands across its abdomen.

Psorophora ciliata is the Feather-Legged Gallinipper Mosquito. Its heavy scales give the appearance of feathers. It is a large mosquito with noticeable yellow and black banded legs. Flooded fields make great breeding grounds, and their eggs can hatch years later when a water source is added. These mosquitoes are infamous for their aggressive biting. While they have tested positive for a variety of encephalitis, and West Nile virus, they are not considered to be a vector.

Psorophora columbiae is a medium to large, black mosquito that is known as the Black Gallinipper Mosquito. The persistent vicious biters have been known to kill cattle from swarming in large numbers. They breed in open fields flooded after rain showers. This mosquito transmits Venezuelan Equine encephalitis

Toxorhynchities species are known as Cannibal Mosquitoes and they don’t require a blood meal. They feed on other mosquito larvae when they are in the larval stage and are considered beneficial. These very large brightly colored mosquitoes vary from white and metallic blue markings on the thorax to purple and black legs. They lay their eggs in tree holes, tires, and buckets found in shady areas.

While these are just a small segment of the 47 species of mosquito found in the Greater Jacksonville and Ponte Vedra area, they cover the majority of what you’ll experience. Regardless of the type of mosquito on your property, we can help. Call today to learn how we can reduce the mosquitoes on your property by up to 90%. 904-559-3414

Have you heard the famous Warren Buffet quote? “The most important thing to do if you find yourself in a hole is to stop digging.” If you find yourself with a Jacksonville mosquito problem, we recommend you ask yourself what is attracting the mosquitoes, as a first step, before you add mosquito repelling plants.

While we regularly remind you about how standing water can create a perfect mosquito habitat, we rarely discuss other items that can attract and house mosquitoes. As it turns out, there are natural water containers across many Jacksonville properties that you might be overlooking. Namely, plants. Bromeliads are the main culprit and are very popular for landscaping.

Bromeliads are a Mosquito Habitat

Bromeliads are commonly stocked in nurseries for home landscaping. Homeowners love them for their beautiful blooms and tropical feel. And they do well in Jacksonville’s climate. But did you know they hold water in their leaf axils, giving mosquitoes a fantastic protected place to lay eggs which can then develop into adult mosquitoes within a week?

How to Keep Mosquitoes from Breeding in My Bromeliads?

If you don’t currently have Bromeliads, we may suggest you choose a different landscaping plant. But if you have to have them, or already have them and love them, there are a few things you can do:

Flush bromeliads out with a strong spray of hose water at least once a week, it will wash out mosquito eggs, larvae, and pupae before they become adults.

Place a few drops of cooking oil on the surface of the water being held in the Bromeliads to suffocate any larvae or pupae growing under the surface.

Treat the water in the bromeliads with mosquito larvicide, use as directed.

You’ll also benefit tremendously from Mosquito Squad of Jacksonville and Ponte Vedra’s mosquito control barrier treatment to eliminate pesky mosquitoes that breed within the bromeliads before they get a chance to annoy you. Our time-released mosquito spray will stick to the leaves of your bromeliads and eliminate mosquitoes that land on them for up to three weeks! Our mosquito control services are 100% guaranteed and will reduce up to 90% of mosquitoes on your property. Call today to get started. 904-559-3414

Jacksonville Mosquito Climate is on Overdrive

Jacksonville’s extra rainy summer has the mosquito population booming. It’s already hot and humid most of the time, so add a few extra inches of water and the mosquitoes can’t multiply fast enough. Now throw in the threat of Zika or West Nile virus, and it’s time to look for every alternative there is to getting rid of these little biting machines. How about a mosquito-eating fish?

It sounds like something you might see in a cartoon but it’s a real thing, and it works!

The Mosquitofish

According to the Orlando Sentinel, the Orange County Health Department is deploying the mosquitofish to abandoned “green” pools in Central Florida. After initially testing just 50 fish in one pool, the health department found that not only did the fish eradicate the mosquito larvae, but they also multiplied, making this “self-sustaining process” a better option than others used in the past.

Mosquitofish have been around in the United States since the early 1900s. People used them in abandoned pools, ditches, and ponds. About 25 years ago the New Jersey State Bureau of Freshwater Fisheries started breeding these fish. They are becoming used more and more across the country for mosquito control. In 2016, the Plano Texas Environmental Health Department released 13,000 mosquitofish in their efforts to control the mosquito population and fight Zika.

They look a bit like minnows but watch one of these little guys in action (below) as he makes a meal out of a bowl full of mosquito larvae.

The diseases that mosquitoes carry make mosquito control a widespread public health effort. It is important to treat as many areas of standing water as we can in our cities. However, most of us don’t keep a stagnant old pool in our yards, so at home, these out of the box methods just aren’t practical.

Our backyard mosquito control services have proven effective time and time again. Our barrier treatment at Mosquito Squad of Greater Jacksonville and Ponte Vedra will eliminate 85-90% of the mosquitoes in your yard and continues to work for up to 3 weeks. Call us today to create a season-long schedule so that you and your family can enjoy your home and outdoors without the swatting and itching that comes along with mosquitoes. 904-559-3414

Recent daily rainfall has taken much of Florida out of a severe drought and even eliminated the drought entirely in Jacksonville. With over a foot of rain falling in several weeks, we have surpassed the entire year’s rain accumulation, which as of June 16 stood at over 21 inches. While the replenishment of dried up bodies of water and the lowered threat of wildfires is worth celebrating, there is a new threat born out of the rain.

Mosquitoes.

Rain + Heat = Mosquitoes

Mosquitoes multiply and thrive in standing water. With daily rainfall it can be difficult for puddling water and containers to dry out, leaving the mosquitoes a perfect place to lay eggs. Mosquito eggs take approximately a week to develop into adult mosquitoes, which gives us an important deadline for cleaning up our standing water sources. After all, with just one female mosquito laying eggs in your yard, you could be looking at over a billion mosquitoes in just four weeks if the environment is just right.

mosquito larvae growing in standing water

Mosquito Source Elimination

The best way to combat mosquito population growth is to continuously follow the Ts of mosquito control for your yard. These tips will help you remember all of the places where standing water usually occurs so you can eliminate them. We recommend taking a walk through your yard after every afternoon rain to make sure nothing slips past you. With just a week from egg to adult, vigilance is vital.

Some of the most often missed sources of mosquito growth include potted plant saucers, corrugated downspouts, children’s toys, clogged gutters, and blocked ditches or sewer drains.

Eliminate Up to 90% of Mosquitoes in Your Yard

And for those mosquitoes that do find a way to develop in your yard or nearby, Mosquito Squad of Greater Jacksonville and Ponte Vedra can eliminate up to 90% of them with our seasonal mosquito barrier treatment. The fewer you start with, the fewer you’ll have, so let’s team up for as few annoying, disease-carrying pests as possible. Call today for a free quote and to schedule your first mosquito treatment. 904-559-3414

We love our pets like they are our children, and we want them to be healthy and happy like our children as well. During the warmest months of the year, keeping them healthy includes keeping them free from Jacksonville fleas, ticks, and mosquitoes.

Itchy Fleas

One flea can bite your dog or cat up to 350 times in one day. Allergies to the flea saliva will have your pet itching and scratching and chewing out of sheer discomfort. And fleas multiply QUICKLY! Before you know it, it’s not just your pet that could be covered in fleas they could be all over your home.

Disease-Carrying Ticks

Ticks are a completely different problem. They too can latch onto your dog or cat and be carried around for days, but you may never see them. They simply don’t cause the itching and scratching that fleas do and when covered up with fur they aren’t as noticeable to the naked eye. However, they can be much more dangerous than fleas due to the diseases that they carry. Just like humans, pets are susceptible to Lyme disease, Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever, Ehrlichiosis, and even tick paralysis.

Deadly Mosquitoes

And finally mosquitoes: mosquitoes carry one of the worst diseases to affect our four legged friends… heartworms. Heartworms primarily affect dogs, but for every 100 dogs that get heartworm, 10 cats get heartworm. Heartworms can be fatal if not treated. Worse yet, for cats, there is no treatment, and for dogs, recovery is a long slow process. No one wants to see their pet go through this.

Lower Your Pets Risks at Home and Away

We all agree that prevention is vital for the comfort and well-being of our beloved 4-legged family members. First of all, it is important to follow your vet’s recommendations when it comes to preventative treatments that protect against heartworm, ticks, and fleas.

Reducing mosquitoes, ticks, and fleas in your yard is a great additional preventative measure and also works as an alternative solution if extenuating circumstances prohibit the use of the widely recommended topical treatments.

At Mosquito Squad of Jacksonville and Ponte Vedra our mosquito,tick, and flea treatments provide a comfortable, playful outdoor setting pets need. Our barrier treatment eliminates mosquitoes and ticks on contact and continues to keep them out of your yard for up to 3 weeks. Fleas can be eliminated too. With our added growth regulator we stop the flea life-cycle preventing them from growing into adults. Just another way to rid your yard of fleas and prevent flea infestation in your home.

Early this spring, WTLV shared a drone video of a surfer’s close encounter with a shark right off of Ponte Vedra Beach. It was about 5 pm when Julian Goodall decided to take some video of his buddies surfing in the Cabana Beach Club area and there they were – at least 2 sharks within feet. Actually this time of year we see similar footage up and down each coast. But how scared should we be?

What is the Deadliest Animal on Earth?

Well, of course, no one wants to get bitten by a shark, but did you know that out of the top 24 deadliest animals in the world, sharks actually rank 23rd, killing only 5 humans per year globally. Probably a lot less than you expected. I’d be willing to bet that Cnet’s entire list might shock you a little. Horses kill 20 people a year. And ants… 30! Tsetse Flies, Assassin Bugs, and Freshwater Snails are tied for 7th coming in at 10,000 deaths per year. Snails? I would have never thought about deadly snails! But even 10,000 deaths a year is so much less than the #1 deadliest organism. Less by about 990,000!

Deadly Animals Come in Small Packages

Have you guessed it? If you were in your own backyard this weekend I’m sure you probably saw one. The mosquito kills 1 million people each year according to the World Health Organization. Most of these deaths are caused by Malaria, however, West Nile Virus, Dengue, Yellow Fever, and Zika are all potentially dangerous diseases carried by mosquitoes. On his blog, Bill Gates says that more than 2,500 species of mosquitoes exist and can be found in every region of the world other than Antarctica. And no one has to tell us that they can be found here.

Jacksonville Mosquito Control Provides Peace-of-Mind

You wouldn’t go near Elephants or Hippos (who tie for #13 with a measly 500 human deaths) for fear of being crushed, but when was the last time you heard of a Hippo stampede at the neighborhood July 4th BBQ? If you did, you’d certainly do something to stop them. The mosquitoes are coming to your BBQ, and they are much more deadly than elephants, hippos, and sharks combined, don’t let them in!

This year as you are watching the news for shark reports before you plan a day on the beach, maybe you should consider those pesky little killers that could be right in your backyard as well. At Mosquito Squad of Jacksonville and Ponte Vedra, we’d like to eliminate the worry along with 85-90% of the mosquitoes in your outdoors spaces. Our trained professional technicians with our 100% guaranteed barrier treatment will make your yard the safe and comfortable place you deserve for a great summer of fun, right there at home. Call us today to schedule the first installment of the plan that works best for you. We can’t wait to hear from you. 904-559-3414

Mosquito bites… aren’t they one of the most annoying things about summer? You spent a great evening in the backyard with your friends, only to pay for it with the itching and scratching. And what’s worse? Your spouse seems to be just fine! Why is this only happening to you? Your reaction to mosquito bites is actually an allergy. Dr. Rajani Katta, a board certified dermatologist from Texas, explains to Country Living Magazine, “The reaction is caused by salivary proteins introduced when adult female mosquitoes penetrate the skin,” she says. So just like bee stings, shellfish, peanuts some people react, and some people don’t.

How to Stop an Itchy Mosquito Bite

So what if you are one of the unlucky ones? How can you heal these itchy, red, possibly swollen mosquito bites quickly? Dr. Katta says that hydrocortisone cream is the best possible remedy. It helps the healing while stopping the itch at the same time. There are also steroid creams available for extreme cases. However, they can cause thinning of the skin that leads to cuts and bruising. If you use these, it’s best to use them sparingly. And then there is what not to do when it comes to mosquito bites. Home remedies are not a good idea. The old wives tales, like lemon juice and witch hazel, can actually irritate the skin more. Most importantly…DON’T SCRATCH! Scratching can lead to open sores which can cause an infection. Katta suggests pressure or tapping of the bites as a way of distracting the nerves and the brain from the feeling of the itch. Give it a try!

While dealing with the annoyance and itch of mosquito bites correctly is important, at Mosquito Squad of Greater Jacksonville and Ponte Vedra we want to help you focus on avoiding them altogether. Mosquitoes are not simply a summer pest, they also carry disease, and the best thing you can do for the sake of your family’s well being is keeping your yard clear of them. Take it upon yourself to follow the Ts of mosquito-proofing your yard.

And when it comes to that final T… treatment…call us. Our 100% guaranteed mosquito barrier treatment eliminates 85-90% of mosquitoes on contact and continues to work for up to 3 weeks. Our treatment programs are the hassle free way to avoid mosquito bites. Call us and schedule your first barrier spray today! 904-559-3414

The season is upon us. Starting with college and high school graduations, on to Memorial Day and then the fan-favorite Fourth of July will be here before you know it; it’s outdoor party season in Jacksonville!

If you’re starting the season with a graduation party, you must be feeling mixed emotions at every level. Your days of checking homework and packing lunches are coming to a close as you celebrate your baby, grown baby, preparing to leave the nest. All of your parenting work has paid off, and your child has graduated. As you wonder if you worked this hard planning your wedding, you prepare guest lists, hire caterers, plan the decorations and send out the invitations for this celebratory event.

Mosquito-Free Graduation Parties

Did you know your spring graduation party can be completely ruined by mosquitoes no matter how well you plan? As the celebration of a successful party tends to go late into the night, you don’t want your guests slapping and itching from mosquito bites. You’d rather they continue to enjoy the night and talk all the next day about how much fun it was.

Mosquito control for your Jacksonville party might be easier than you think. No handing out cans of stinky spray or filling and spilling citronella oil that doesn’t even work. With Mosquito Squad of Greater Jacksonville and Ponte Vedra’s special event mosquito treatment you’ll enjoy an odor-free, residue-free barrier that will have eliminated mosquitoes from your party space. The special formulation allows it to continue to work for the duration of your party for mosquito-free graduation fun! Haul out the yard games, build the bonfire, enjoy the night with help from Mosquito Squad.

Have you ever watched a bump on your arm begin to swell and itch and wonder this very thing? There are major differences, the most important one being the way they are treated, so it’s important to be able to recognize them.

Infections:

Infections enter the body through small bites or through irritated skin, so yes mosquito bites can result in an infection, however, they cannot cause one. Infections are caused by bacteria, usually staph or strep. There are 3 major types: Impetigo, Cellulitis, and Lymphangitis. Impetigo is more prevalent in children and causes sores around the nose and mouth. Cellulitis causes warm, red or streaked skin, swelling, and tenderness in the infected area. Symptoms could include fever, chills, and swollen glands. Lymphangitis will form red streaks as the bacteria enter the lymphatic system and rapidly multiply. Infections happen over time, not instantly and are accompanied by a fever once they set in. If you feel you have an infection see a doctor right away and he can give you the antibiotics required to treat it.

Reactions and Allergies:

Mosquitoes DO cause reactions. Some simple and some severe. The common reaction to a mosquito bite is possibly a little swelling with an itchy red bump. Babies and small children tend to have a bigger reaction due to sensitive tissue in their arms and legs, so the swelling can be larger and the color brighter. Even bruising can occur as a result, but this still is a reaction to the bite and not an infection. What causes these reactions? It is the saliva of the mosquito. When the mosquito bites, it injects its saliva to act as a blood thinner, for the sake of an easy blood meal. It is unclear why some people are allergic to this saliva, but it is known to cause different reactions.

Skeeter Syndrome:

Skeeter syndrome is an extreme allergic reaction to mosquito saliva. Some people may react to a mosquito bite just as people with bee sting allergies do. The swelling can be extreme to the point of blistering, hot, and hard to the touch. Systemic reactions are possible as well, but these are rare. Nausea, hives, swelling of the lips and mouth can occur. It can also come with fever and even anaphylactic shock or asthma. This can be life threatening. Treatment for reactions can be anything from compressions with hot cloths and elevation, cortisone and other topical creams, or oral antihistamines. Those people with known extreme reactions should carry an epinephrine auto-injector or EpiPen. An Epipen will stop immediate loss of airflow, but these types of reactions should send you straight to a hospital.

How Can We Tell The Difference?

A blog post from Advanced Pediatrics gives us a good example using mosquito bites on the eyelid. When you wake up and your eyelid is swollen shut it can be a very scary moment. However, this can be a minor reaction to a mosquito bite. Fluid can collect easily in the eyelid especially when one is lying down. If you find one eyelid to be light pink, itchy, and terribly swollen but soft to the touch it is most likely a reaction that will subside after some time spent sitting up. An infection would affect both eyes, causing pain, and the color would be much darker. Swelling from an infection is not going to go away after a period of sitting up.

Now that you have a little insight on what causes reactions and infections, it’s time to educate on prevention. Mosquito Squad of Greater Jacksonville and Ponte Vedra is the professional mosquito service best equipped to keep your home and yard protected from mosquitoes and ticks. Call us today to discuss what the best solutions are for your family. 904-559-3414

It is going to be in the mid to upper 80s this week in Ponte Vedra Beach. That means the mosquitoes are out and they are hungry. The Aedes Aegypti mosquito is one of Florida’s more aggressive mosquitoes, and it is known for seeking food sources during the daylight hours. This mosquito is also known as the yellow fever mosquito and right now in Brazil, it is living up to its name. According to an article from NPR, there have been 604 confirmed cases of Yellow Fever in Brazil and 200 confirmed deaths.

Does Yellow Fever in Brazil Really Affect the United States?

Dr. Anthony Fauci of the National Institutes of Health explains to us in this article how illnesses carried by this specific mosquito vector have followed certain patterns over the past years. Dengue, Chikungunya, and Zika (each carried by this yellow fever mosquito) all seemed to begin slowly but then suddenly exploded into huge outbreaks over the Western Hemisphere. And then with travel, these outbreaks were able to slip into the United States. So as these cases of Yellow Fever are beginning to pop up, scientists are wondering and possibly assuming it is likely to go the same way. A large outbreak in South America will most definitely lead to cases entering the United States.

What Does Yellow Fever Look Like?

With the possibility of an outbreak on the rise and the yellow fever mosquito a presence here in our part of the world, it’s important that we learn what Yellow Fever looks like and how to deal with it. Initially, Yellow Fever symptoms look like the flu as so many other mosquito and tick-borne illnesses do, if there are symptoms at all that is. Most people that do become symptomatic will recover 100% with possibly some lingering fatigue and weakness.

However about 15% of cases will become much more severe after the basic chills, headache, body aches, and nausea subside. The second more serious round of symptoms can include high fever, jaundice, and bleeding. Shock and failure of organs is also possible in this more serious state and 20-50% of this group of people could possibly die. There is no specific treatment for Yellow Fever. Rest, fluids, and treatment of symptoms with close observation are the best options for relief.

There is something out there for Yellow Fever that the other illnesses don’t have though: that’s a Yellow Fever vaccine. A 99% effective vaccine does exist for Yellow Fever so it is important to keep an eye on its growth and spreading. At the moment Dr. Fauci says there if not enough for the entire population of Brazil, much less other parts of the world so it is important to observe and be proactive in the production of this vaccine.

Preventing Yellow Fever

When we talk about the diseases mosquitoes can carry, Dengue, Chikungunya, Zika, Yellow Fever, we always say the same thing – prevention, prevention, prevention. The best way not to spread Yellow Fever is not to contract Yellow Fever. When traveling continue to check the CDC’s travel recommendations. Dress appropriately for areas thick with mosquitoes and use bug spray containing DEET when outdoors.

Prevention on the homefront can include keeping humans from spreading Yellow Fever to other mosquitoes if it makes it this far. Follow the Ts of mosquito control and don’t allow your yard to become a breeding ground. We at Mosquito Squad of Greater Jacksonville and Ponte Vedra would like to assist by eliminating up to 90% of the mosquitoes on your property with our highly effective mosquito barrier spray. Call us today at 904-559-3414 and don’t forget about our automatic misting systems and our event spray capabilities. We have everything you need to stay protected from mosquitoes.

The Asian tiger (Aedes albopictus) and the yellow fever mosquito (Aedes Aegypti) are the most aggressive mosquitoes in Florida. Both mosquitoes originated in other countries, making their way to the United States through human migration and the global economy. The single most dangerous trait they both possess is being active and seeking nourishment during daytime hours, which certainly allows them a better opportunity to feast on humans.

Additionally, both mosquito breeds are highly efficient container breeders. Often laying eggs for successful growth in small amounts of standing water found in drainage ditches, spare tires, flower pots and other backyard items. This penchant for finding water sources wherever they can make them thrive in urban areas where there are more people, adding to their success as disease spreading vectors. The Asian tiger and yellow fever mosquitoes are especially sensitive to our vigilance in following the T’s of mosquito control, so make sure you keep containers clean and dry.

Yellow Fever Mosquito

The Aedes Aegypti or yellow fever mosquito has made the news in the last year for its active role in the spread of Zika virus. Arriving on the shores of the United States from Africa hundreds of years ago, it is believed to have been brought to the U.S. on ships during exploration and colonization. It garnered its nickname due to its notorious status as the primary vector of yellow fever. Yellow fever is prevalent in South America and Africa but can arise in mild climates during the summer. The yellow fever mosquito also transmits dengue, chikungunya and other dangerous diseases.

Until the invasion of the Asian tiger mosquito in 1985, the yellow fever mosquito was common in Florida. With the arrival of the Asian tiger, yellow fever mosquito populations have been on a steady decline; this is thought to be due to the Asian tiger’s faster development during the larvae phase of life, out-competing the yellow fever larvae for food.

Asian Tiger Mosquito

The first discovery of the Aedes Albopictus or Asian tiger mosquito in Florida was right here in Jacksonville in 1986. First discovered in Texas a year earlier, Asian tigers are thought to have come from the Far East in shipments of tires. The species has spread rapidly since its arrival, including all 67 counties in Florida and right on up the east coast of the United States.

The Asian tiger garnered its common nickname due to the easily recognizable black and silver scales on as well as the white stripe down the center of its dorsal. The Asian tiger is known to carry and spread Easter equine encephalitis and dengue fever, but because they feed on animals as well as humans they are less likely to spread diseases such as Chikungunya and Zika virus. The Asian tiger is known to be an aggressive, opportunistic biter; you’ll not shoo them away easily.

The same year round warmth that drew most of us to live here in the Jacksonville and Ponte Vedra Beach area is the same weather that allows these dangerous mosquitoes to thrive. Just like hurricanes and alligators, all of the things that non-Floridians may find alarming can avoided with proper precautions so that life in Florida truly is paradise. Call Mosquito Squad of Greater Jacksonville and Ponte Vedra today. 904-559-3414 We’ll provide season-long mosquito control for your home so you can enjoy your days and nights without the annoying buzzing and biting of aggressive, dangerous mosquitoes.

As if being one of a few states to suffer the local spreading of the Zika Virus by mosquitoes wasn’t enough, we now have two new mosquito breeds in the state. For the first time in mainland Florida, Culex panocossa and Aedeomyia squamipennis were discovered in Homestead, Florida by University of Florida researchers. These two mosquitoes are native to Central and South America and are thought to have migrated to Florida on plants.

Researchers were surprised by this discovery, due to the distance between Florida and their native locations. Entomologist, Nathan Burkett-Cadena told the Miami Herald, “This would speak to some broader environmental changes that have caused Florida to be more accessible and hospitable to tropical mosquitoes,” In other words, the warming planet has made this possible.’

Reason for Caution

Culex panocossa and Aedeomyia squamipennis both are capable of carrying dangerous mosquito-borne viruses. Laying their eggs on water lettuce, and invasive weed, these mosquitoes are likely to multiply and spread easily.

Aedeomyia squamipennis feeds mostly on birds. While that is good for us in so far that we will find them to be less annoying, they can pick up West Nile Virus or Eastern Equine Encephalitis which could be passed on to humans and other mammals by a single bite. This mosquito is also known to spread bird malarias, including a strain that “wiped out many of the songbirds in Hawaii.”

Culex panocossa could likely pose a more urgent threat to humans than its counterpart. It has been confirmed as a vector of Venezuelan equine encephalitis, a condition that is especially threatening to children and the elderly. It also carries the Everglades virus. In the past, mosquitoes in the Everglades tend to stay there, so the Everglades virus has not become widespread. But with new vectors who could thrive outsides of the Everglades, transmission could become more common in humans.

Everglades Virus

Mild forms of the virus can cause symptoms that seem flu-like along with achy joints. Severe cases of Everglades virus could lead to brain swelling (encephalitis) that can cause comas. Everglades virus has not so far proven fatal.

With the total number of invasive mosquitoes discovered in Florida now numbering nine, it is more important than ever to exercise caution and vigilance in mosquito safety and mosquito control. While keeping your yard free of standing water and debris by following the T’s of mosquito control is a great first step, call Mosquito Squad of Greater Jacksonville and Ponte Vedra to eliminate 85-90% of mosquitoes from your property. Sign up for the season, and we’ll automatically come back every three weeks to keep you pest-free all season. 904-559-3414

Did you think the threat of Zika Virus in Greater Jacksonville and Ponte Vedra is gone? Given the lack of media attention, especially compared to this time last year, I wouldn’t be surprised if most people think the Zika scare is over. Unfortunately, mosquitoes are still alive and well here, as is the Zika Virus.

New Locally-Transmitted Zika Case

According to the Sun Sentinel a person in Miami-Dade was discovered to have a locally-acquired case of Zika Virus just last week. There have also been four new cases of travel-related Zika Virus in South Florida.

The Florida Department of Health notes that the recent locally-acquired case of Zika Virus was likely contracted in 2016, but because they had no symptoms, officials do not know exactly when the virus was contracted. This is a steep reminder, especially to travelers, that you can have Zika and spread Zika without ever knowing you have it. It’s an especially dangerous scenario for pregnant women in the area.

The total number of Zika cases in Florida in 2017 is now at 29 cases. Thirteen of those cases were in pregnant women. While there is no “active transmission” taking place, officials warn that isolated cases of locally-acquired Zika are not uncommon.

Early 2017 Mosquito Season

This early in the mosquito season, the current number of 29 Zika cases is expected to rise. According to CBS 47 the warm winter has had mosquitoes out early this year. They also issue a reminder that March is spring break season, which is when we would expect to see the Zika Virus being brought back to Florida from tropical locations that are more affected. Check out the CDC’s Zika travel notice page for the latest on affected countries.

Mosquito Squad of Greater Jacksonville and Ponte Vedra is your best choice for Zika prevention. While you won’t always know whether a neighbor has brought Zika to the area after vacation, you will always know that your risks are lowered tremendously thanks to the best mosquito control service available. Our season-long mosquito treatment will eliminate 85-90% of mosquitoes on your property. Call today for a free quote. 904-559-3414

Whatever you might call them, midges or blind mosquitoes, we can all agree that when midges are out in full force they annoy and disturb everyone. They arrive in early spring and cover the side your Ponte Vedra Beach or Jacksonville house, like something out of an Alfred Hitchcock horror film.

While we spend a lot of our time focusing on the danger brought to our clients by mosquito-borne and tick-borne diseases, the annoyance factor can be worse than the danger factor. Midges might not infect you with West Nile Virus, Zika or Lyme disease, but they can certainly test your mental health when trying to enjoy the great outdoors.

Especially if you live near the marshes, you might already be seeing flocks of these tiny flying insects; much earlier than previous years. A lack of winter and plenty of moisture has given midges an early start to the season. Giving you an early start to hiding inside, a tactic best left for avoiding heat at high noon on the hottest July days.

Don’t let this gorgeous spring weather pass you by while you hide from the annoyance of midges, punkies, blind mosquitoes, or (other nicknames you might give these pests that I cannot repeat in public.) Call Mosquito Squad of Greater Jacksonville and Ponte Vedra today for the best Midge Control in Jacksonville and Ponte Vedra Beach.904-559-3414